ADHD Assessment in Wales
In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, patients have the legal right to seek specialist ADHD services offered by the NHS. It is not always possible due to the underfunding of these services and regional variations in the level of specialization.
Doctors have preconceived notions of what someone with ADHD might appear like, and this makes it difficult to determine the cause. If it is possible, it can be very beneficial for patients to bring information from those who are familiar with their condition.
The Assessment
If you think that you may have ADHD, the first step is to schedule an appointment with your GP. They will need to know the effect it has on your life as well as any other issues you're struggling with. Once they have the information, they can decide if they would like to send you to an assessment at a contracted adult ADHD service. Alternatively, self assessment adhd test can self-refer and pay for an in-person ADHD assessment with a skilled psychologist.
If you or a GP recommends you for an NHS ADHD assessment The process usually begins with an initial clinical interview. This can be done in person, by video conference or via phone. You will be asked to bring a list of current problems, a questionnaire containing questions about your education and mental health background and a list of your current issues. The interview typically lasts approximately one hour. It is beneficial to have notes on your issues prior to the interview to ensure you can remember them. You can also bring along any feedback from people who know you well, like teachers or supervisors to give you more insight into your difficulties.
During this visit the doctor will review your symptoms in relation to the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). They will also examine any other issues which could be the cause of your symptoms. This is called differential diagnosis and they will examine other conditions, such as depression or anxiety.
A private assessment typically includes a thorough examination and a clinical interview. They will also ask for opinions from those who know you well, such as friends or family members. They will also inquire about your medication and any other issues that you may be struggling with. The specialist will then make use of this information to design an individual treatment plan which could include medication and psychotherapy.
Private assessments are typically quicker than an NHS assessment due to the fact that you don't need to consult your GP. However, this method can be expensive, and it may not cover all the things your GP must do.
Diagnosis
If you think you have ADHD the first step is speaking to your GP. They must consider your concerns seriously and inquire if you have evidence of support such as ASRS questionnaires and school reports or work evaluations. Bring these documents with you.
Then, you will be then referred to a doctor to conduct an assessment. You can choose to either use the NHS or the private sector. If you decide to go through the NHS the process can be lengthy and it's not uncommon to have a waiting lists. A private ADHD evaluation is typically a shorter and more straightforward experience.
You will meet with a psychiatrist who is a senior consultant who will conduct a thorough mental health assessment. They will review with you your symptoms history as well as your medical history, developmental background, drug history and family history. They will also consider other health issues and decide whether they exist alongside or instead of ADHD.
The psychiatrist will come up with an assessment after having assessed your symptoms. The psychiatrist will base their diagnosis on the evidence you've provided, including the checklists of symptoms and the scales of behaviour. They may also use other sources, like information from family members, teachers, or friends who are familiar with you, your doctor, and your health records.
After they have made an appropriate decision the psychiatrist will explain the decision to you in detail. The psychiatrist will outline a plan of care that should include medication. It is important to determine whether your GP will accept what's called a 'shared care agreement' after you've received a private diagnosis and are taking medication. This will allow you to access support services such as therapeutic coaching and specialist coaching to manage your illness.
Treatment
If your GP confirms that you have ADHD If he or she confirms that you have ADHD, they will refer you to an expert mental health team that will conduct a specialized assessment. You will be asked to complete questionnaires by a psychiatrist or psychologist about your symptoms and past. They will also talk to you about your family history and your work history. Remember that medical professionals could have preconceived notions about how people with ADHD behave and it can impact their perception of you. For instance, they could think that you're naughty or irresponsible if you have ADHD.
After undergoing a complete mental health assessment, your doctor will be able to identify you as having ADHD. They will look at your symptoms and how long you've been suffering from them and how they impact your life. They will also take into account any other health problems you suffer from. If you are suffering from depression or anxiety, this could cause your ADHD symptoms worse.
Treatment for ADHD involves the use of therapy in conjunction with medication. Treatments for ADHD are effective by boosting activity in brain regions that control attention and behaviour. The most frequently used medication for ADHD is methylphenidate, which is part of the group of medicines called stimulants. These drugs can be taken orally and are available through the NHS. They can improve your concentration and reduce hyperactivity. Your doctor will advise you the duration of your medication. Many patients are prescribed the medication for as long as is necessary.
Another treatment option for ADHD is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which is a type of talk therapy that helps you comprehend how your thoughts, beliefs and attitudes affect your behaviour. CBT can also be used to aid in overcoming depression and anxiety. It is essential to choose a therapist that is skilled in treating adults suffering from ADHD.
If you're diagnosed with ADHD, you could be eligible for financial assistance through Access to Work. It is a program administered by the Department for Work and Pensions that provides practical and financial assistance to help you succeed in your work. If you are a self-employed person or are seeking work, you are eligible to apply for this scheme. Find out more about the scheme on its website.
Support
If you have concerns about ADHD or you've been told you might have it, it's crucial to have an evaluation by an expert doctor. This will allow you to determine if your symptoms are linked to this condition, and if they are the case, what treatment options may be available.
The process of assessment usually involves conversations with a consultant psychiatrist, but may also include questionnaires or rating scales. The psychiatrist will also take note of your medical and lifestyle history, as well as your family and social history. This will help them better know your concerns and determine if any other factors are contributing to your behavior.
If the psychiatrist believes that you may be suffering from ADHD the doctor will prepare a report for your GP. They may ask you to complete a DIVA 5.0 (Diagnostic Interview for Adults with ADHD) questionnaire which will provide them with more details about your problems and how they might affect your life. The doctor will then recommend you to an ADHD clinic or an adult mental health services.
The NHS in England, Wales and Northern Ireland follows the NICE guidelines on ADHD which grants you a "right to provide'. If your GP refuses the request for an ADHD assessment, then you can ask another GP to do it or contact AADD UK to seek advice.
After you've been referred to, the NHS will review your case in detail. They will review the evidence you have provided, including reports from teachers, your GP or other health experts. They will also consider whether other conditions, like depression or anxiety, could be causing your problems.
The assessment process can be lengthy and frustrating It's important to remember that there are typically long waiting lists for appointments. If you're worried about how to cope while waiting for an appointment, request your GP for an Shared Care Agreement that includes an individual service. These agreements allow you to access private assessments and treatments at a lower cost. However, it is important to confirm whether your GP will agree to these before you start the process.